avoiding a conflict

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "avoiding a conflict" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing strategies or actions taken to prevent disagreements or disputes in various contexts, such as personal relationships or professional settings. Example: "In order to maintain a harmonious work environment, we should focus on avoiding a conflict during team discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

It was seen as a last hope at avoiding a conflict that could engulf the Horn of Africa.

The New York Times

But a C.I.A. spokesman, Preston Golson, suggested that the delay in providing information was simply a matter of avoiding a conflict with the criminal leak inquiry under way.

The New York Times

So can the United States work to preserve stability in Asia, protect its allies there, and limit the emergence of a Greater China while avoiding a conflict with Beijing?

The New York Times

Leaders of the Future Movement, the political party traditionally backed by the Sunni community, are intent on avoiding a conflict, but they have lost much of their sway over militants and hard-line Islamists.

The New York Times

Along with avoiding a conflict of interest, there are several other ethical guidelines to keep in mind as you review the manuscript.

Springer

Such sessions have traditionally been held at night, avoiding a conflict with the busy daytime shift.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

And they are eager to avoid a conflict with Iran.

The New York Times

Lawyers advised separating the investing venture from the consulting business to avoid a conflict of interest.

The New York Times

Plenty of dentists stick to patient care, in part to avoid a conflict of interest.

The New York Times

competitions director, Sandro Giovannelli, who will try to avoid a conflict that could seriously damage the I.A.A.F.

The New York Times - Sports

Do you sugarcoat the feedback — trying to avoid a conflict — or get frustrated and fight back?

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about sensitive topics, proactively use the phrase "avoiding a conflict" to demonstrate foresight and planning in preventing potential disagreements.

Common error

Avoid using passive constructions when describing actions for "avoiding a conflict". Instead of writing 'A conflict was avoided by...', opt for active voice: 'They focused on avoiding a conflict'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "avoiding a conflict" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It frequently serves as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting the action of preventing disagreements or disputes. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "avoiding a conflict" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase denoting the act of preventing disagreements or disputes. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is appropriate across various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. Related phrases like "averting a conflict" can provide alternative phrasing. When using the phrase, prioritize active voice and consider whether avoidance is the most effective long-term strategy. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively use "avoiding a conflict" to convey foresight and strategic planning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

averting a conflict

Focuses on stopping a conflict from happening.

preventing a dispute

Emphasizes the action of stopping a disagreement before it escalates.

defusing a situation

Highlights the act of reducing tension in a potentially conflicting scenario.

managing disagreement

Focuses on controlling and navigating a disagreement constructively.

sidestepping confrontation

Suggests skillfully avoiding a direct clash.

bypassing friction

Implies navigating around potential sources of conflict.

forestalling discord

Highlights acting in advance to prevent disharmony.

mitigating tension

Emphasizes reducing the intensity of a strained situation.

circumventing opposition

Suggests cleverly finding a way around resistance or disagreement.

precluding strife

Indicates making conflict impossible through preemptive action.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "avoiding a conflict" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "averting a conflict" or "preventing a dispute". These alternatives often carry a more serious or professional tone.

What's the difference between "avoiding a conflict" and "resolving a conflict"?

"Avoiding a conflict" implies preventing a conflict from occurring in the first place. In contrast, "resolving a conflict" refers to addressing and settling a conflict that already exists. They represent different stages of conflict management.

Is "avoiding conflict" always a good strategy?

While "avoiding conflict" can maintain harmony in the short term, it's not always ideal. Sometimes, addressing disagreements directly is necessary for growth and progress. Consider the specific context to decide if avoidance is the best approach.

How to use "avoiding a conflict" in a sentence?

You can use "avoiding a conflict" in various contexts. For example: "The primary goal of the negotiation was "avoiding a conflict" between the two nations" or "The company implemented new policies aimed at "avoiding a conflict" of interest among its employees".